Surge in Covid-19 cases in Brixton and Stockwell, including India variant, prompts extra tests
A rise in local infection rates in Brixton and Stockwell, and some cases of the Covid-19 variant first identified in India having been detected in Lambeth.
Lambeth Council is expanding its Covid-19 PCR testing operations to Brixton and Stockwell as a precautionary measure after the rise in cases.
People living, working or studying in the Brixton and Stockwell areas are encouraged to have a Covid-19 PCR test.
Testing sites are open from today (May 27) for 10 days in Windrush Square, Brixton and from tomorrow (May 28) at Stockwell Memorial Gardens, Stockwell. Both sites will be open from 9am to 3pm.
The move follows case data showing the incidence rate in Lambeth has increased in recent weeks from around 10 cases per day, to between 20 and 30 new infections being detected per day.
Ruth Hutt, Lambeth’s Director of Public Health said: “We have seen a relatively small rise in case numbers, and this introduction of extra PCR Covid-19 testing has been introduced so we can monitor infection levels on the ground.
“We know there are some local cases linked to variant first identified in India. So introducing this extra PCR testing as a precautionary measure will allow us to find out if the variant of concern has spread elsewhere.”
The extra testing follows similar measures put in place in Clapham on May 22. Testing there, in Windmill Drive, will continue until June 1. For more information visit lambeth.gov.uk/get-
A comprehensive package of self-isolation support is also offered to all those required to self-isolate. Information on Lambeth council’s enhanced offer is available at lambeth.gov.uk/self-
Getting vaccinated is the best way to protect yourself from Covid-19 and two doses provide the best protection including against new variants of the virus.
Ruth Hutt said: “Please ensure that if you are eligible for vaccination, you take the opportunity. If you have questions about the vaccination please speak to your GP or other health professionals to get the information you need.”
For further up-to-date information on the Covid-19 vaccine, including answers to frequently asked questions, please visit selondonccg.nhs.uk.
Everyone at the South London Press thanks you for your continued support.
Former Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick has encouraged everyone in the country who can afford to do so to buy a newspaper, and told the Downing Street press briefing:
“A FREE COUNTRY NEEDS A FREE PRESS, AND THE NEWSPAPERS OF OUR COUNTRY ARE UNDER SIGNIFICANT FINANCIAL PRESSURE”
If you can afford to do so, we would be so grateful if you can make a donation which will allow us to continue to bring stories to you, both in print and online. Or please make cheques payable to “MSI Media Limited” and send by post to South London Press, Unit 112, 160 Bromley Road, Catford, London SE6 2NZ
